Evaluating the impact of Nature-based Solutions on the provision of water- related and water-dependant Ecosystem Services

Water scarcity is one of the main threats in the Mediterranean region, with natural water supplies no longer sufficient to meet growing demands. Agriculture is the main cause of pressure on natural water resources, leading to the loss of aquatic ecosystems. This situation is aggravated by the increasing effects of climate change and seasonal variations. To address this challenge, improvements in the management of the hydrologic cycle are needed. Developing a nature-based approach to improve the efficiency of existing natural and grey water infrastructure can lead to a more sustainable and optimised response. NbS have a direct impact on improving water availability, and contribute to addressing water security and water governance challenges. However, the lack of a robust and independent standardised assessment of current NbS measures in water management remains a challenge. In this context, the NATMed project (PRIMA programme) aims to improve water management in the Mediterranean region through the implementation of innovative NbS, in adherence to IUCN Global Standard for NbS.